A significant moment in cultural diplomacy unfolded recently as France returned the sacred Djidji Ayôkwé talking drum to Côte d’Ivoire, an artefact looted during the colonial era that has immense historical and cultural value. The drum, seized by French authorities in 1916, arrived at Félix Houphouët-Boigny Airport in Abidjan on 13 March 2026, marking a pivotal step in the ongoing dialogue surrounding the restitution of cultural heritage.
A Symbol of Resistance
The Djidji Ayôkwé, an hourglass-shaped talking drum measuring four metres in length and weighing 430 kilograms, is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Ebrié people, the ethnic group after which the lagoon in Abidjan is named. Historically, this drum served as a vital means of communication, conveying messages over vast distances to announce significant events such as deaths, celebrations, and even warnings of impending danger. Its confiscation followed a local uprising against forced labour, illustrating the drum’s role as a symbol of resistance against colonial oppression.
Aboussou Guy Mobio, chief of the Adjamé-Bingerville community, expressed profound relief and honour at the drum’s return, stating, “After a long stay away from this land, it is returning to its own people. This is the missing piece of the puzzle that is returning today.” His remarks encapsulate the emotional significance of the drum for the local community, linking it to their ancestral heritage.
Cultural Diplomacy in Action
The return of the Djidji Ayôkwé follows a series of negotiations initiated by French President Emmanuel Macron, who pledged in 2021 to facilitate the drum’s restitution. Following extensive discussions and lobbying efforts, the French parliament finally ratified the decision, culminating in this landmark ceremony.
Françoise Remarck, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Culture and Francophonie, described the event as a moment of justice and remembrance. “Djidji Ayôkwé, today your return is a message for our youth who have chosen to reclaim their history,” she proclaimed during the ceremony. Her words highlighted the drum’s significance as a bridge between past and present, fostering social cohesion and dialogue within communities.
Future Prospects for Cultural Heritage
As the wooden crate containing the drum was unloaded, a cultural troupe performed the traditional tchaman dance, celebrating this momentous occasion. Plans are underway for a permanent installation of the drum at the Musée des Civilisations de Côte d’Ivoire, with a formal exhibition anticipated in April. UNESCO has contributed $100,000 to support research and training efforts at the museum, reinforcing the importance of cultural heritage preservation.
Sylvie Memel Kassi, former director of the museum and founder of the TAPA Foundation for Arts and Culture, indicated that the return of the Djidji Ayôkwé could set a precedent for further restitutions. “We are studying eight other objects,” she noted, referencing ongoing discussions between Ivorian and French authorities regarding additional artefacts.
Why it Matters
The repatriation of the Djidji Ayôkwé drum is not merely a return of a physical object; it represents a broader movement towards acknowledging historical injustices and fostering reconciliation between former colonial powers and their territories. As nations increasingly confront the legacy of colonialism, the successful restitution of cultural artefacts like the Djidji Ayôkwé serves as a powerful reminder of the need for dialogue and respect in international relations, while empowering communities to reclaim their narratives and heritage. This event energises ongoing discussions on restitution and sets a hopeful precedent for similar initiatives globally, underscoring the importance of cultural identity in the post-colonial era.
